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Myrrh: history, meaning and how to burn it
Myrrh is the dried resin of Commiphora trees, from Somalia, Ethiopia, Yemen and Oman. It gives a warm, bitter-sweet, earthy smoke.
History
Myrrh was used in ancient Egyptian embalming and temple incense, and is one of the gifts of the Magi. It is often paired with frankincense: the sweet and the bitter.
Traditional uses
Traditionally burned for remembrance, reflection and protection, and around Samhain to honour ancestors.
These are traditional and spiritual uses, not health claims.
How to burn it
Use small pieces on charcoal; a little goes a long way. Ventilate the room.
Burning safely
- Use a heatproof holder or bowl, on a stable surface away from curtains and shelves.
- Open a window a little; smoke should clear, not build up.
- Never leave burning incense alone, and keep it away from children, pets and birds.
- Put it out fully in sand or a dish of water when you are done.
Scents that pair well
Myrrh blends well with frankincense, sandalwood and patchouli.
Myrrh in stock
Questions answered
What does myrrh smell like?
A warm, bitter-sweet, earthy smoke.
What is myrrh used for?
Traditionally burned for remembrance, reflection and protection, and around Samhain to honour ancestors.
Where does myrrh come from?
Somalia, Ethiopia, Yemen and Oman.
Is myrrh safe to burn indoors?
Yes, myrrh is fine to burn indoors with sensible care. Open a window, use a heatproof holder on a stable surface, keep it away from curtains, children and pets, and never leave it burning unattended. If you have asthma or are sensitive to smoke, a diffuser or oil burner is a gentler choice.
How do you burn myrrh?
Myrrh is easy to burn at home: use small pieces on charcoal; a little goes a long way. Ventilate the room. Light the charcoal disc first, wait until it greys over, then add a small piece of resin. Always ventilate the room.
What goes well with myrrh?
Myrrh blends well with Frankincense, Sandalwood and Patchouli. Burn them one after another or mix small amounts on charcoal; tradition pairs scents to deepen or balance the mood. Start with less than you think, as blends can be strong. See our incense guide.
Is myrrh a resin?
Yes, myrrh is the dried resin of Commiphora trees. It comes from Somalia, Ethiopia, Yemen and Oman and gives a warm, bitter-sweet, earthy smoke. Knowing the type helps you choose how to burn it: resins need charcoal, while woods, herbs and flowers are usually sold as sticks, cones or bundles.
Key facts (summary)
- Myrrh is the dried resin of Commiphora trees, from Somalia, Ethiopia, Yemen and Oman.
- A warm, bitter-sweet, earthy smoke.
- Traditionally burned for remembrance, reflection and protection, and around Samhain to honour ancestors.
- Somalia, Ethiopia, Yemen and Oman.
- Yes, myrrh is fine to burn indoors with sensible care.
- Myrrh is easy to burn at home: use small pieces on charcoal; a little goes a long way.
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